Raphael Varane set for £50M reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane, currently facing a challenging season under Erik ten Hag, is about to be presented with a lucrative opportunity to reunite with former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Amidst speculations about Varane's exit from Old Trafford, the Saudi Pro League side are reportedly willing to offer a staggering £50 million-per-year deal to secure his services.

Manchester United's Varane Conundrum

Varane became one of Manchester United's highest-paid players upon joining from Real Madrid, securing £340,000-a-week deal in 2021. But, presently, he has fallen out of favor under manager Erik ten Hag and he is now considering leaving Old Trafford this summer. Struggling for game time this season, the French centre-back is open to new possibilities, with Al-Nassr leading the race.

The Saudi Temptation

The stature of the Saudi Pro League has grown since Portuguese ace Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr. Over the next year, high-profile players like Sadio Mane, Karim Benzema, Neymar, and others joined the ranks from across top European leagues, making Saudi Arabia one of the coveted destinations for professional stars of the modern era. Money will not be an issue for the Riyadh-based outfit, which could see Varane earn an enticing £50 million-per-year.

Ronaldo and Varane: A Reunion in the Middle East

Having previously played together at Real Madrid and briefly at Manchester United, the prospect of a reunion between Cristiano Ronaldo and Raphael Varane at Al-Nassr adds a new chapter to their storied football partnership. With limited game time under the Dutch manager at Old Trafford, the 30-year-old defender has grown frustrated seeing himself down the pecking order, with Ten Hag preferring Harry Maguire ahead of him.

United declined the opportunity to extend Varane's contract by an additional 12 months, as the club aim to lower their wage bill, leaving him free to engage with other clubs as he prepares for a summer transfer.

The World Cup winner has made 84 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions to date and Varane’s current contract expires in 2025.